From staff reports:

Federal Way resident Helen Laier, 91, had her wish granted to meet pro golfer Fred Couples, thanks to Brookdale Senior Living and Jeremy Bloom’s Wish of a Lifetime.

An avid golfer herself, Laier recently returned to the course on her 90th birthday after a series of serious medical conditions including a battle with breast cancer, having two knees replaced, recovering from a broken hip and torn rotator cuff, and undergoing numerous other surgeries.

Laier stays physically active through her love of golf. She has played several times since her hip recovered and frequently watches professional tournaments on television. Living in Federal Way for more than 60 years, Laier closely followed the career of her favorite golfer, Fred Couples, a local boy who worked his way to a successful golf career.

“Over the years, I kept thinking well wouldn’t that really be something to meet Fred Couples,” said Laier. “To me it’s an impossible dream. It would be a miracle. I can’t even imagine it happening.”

On Aug. 25, Laier’s lifelong dream came true. Laier traveled to the Boeing Classic Pro-Am in Snoqualmie to meet Couples. Laier accompanied Couples during a few holes of the course. She was also interviewed by Jay Radzavicz of the Golf Channel.

“Fred Couples is very handsome and charming, much more handsome in person,” said Laier, a resident of Foundation House, a Brookdale Senior Living retirement community in Federal Way.